Therapists in Contra Costa County, CA

Photo of Aza Tetelman, Psychologist in Contra Costa County, CA
Aza Tetelman
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Orinda, CA 94563  (Online Only)
Dr. Aza Tetelman is a licensed clinical psychologist specializing in depression, anxiety, grief, trauma, inter-generational conflicts and acculturation difficulties. She enjoys facilitating self-understanding via bibliotherapy techniques, whether through the use of novels, self-help books, comics, or other media. She also believes that preventative care is just as important as healing in the aftermath of life challenges. Her clinical approach is warm and attentive, and takes on relational, dialectic, and insight-oriented approaches to treatment.
Dr. Aza Tetelman is a licensed clinical psychologist specializing in depression, anxiety, grief, trauma, inter-generational conflicts and acculturation difficulties. She enjoys facilitating self-understanding via bibliotherapy techniques, whether through the use of novels, self-help books, comics, or other media. She also believes that preventative care is just as important as healing in the aftermath of life challenges. Her clinical approach is warm and attentive, and takes on relational, dialectic, and insight-oriented approaches to treatment.
(415) 449-1861 View (415) 449-1861
Photo of Diana Duarte, Marriage & Family Therapist in Contra Costa County, CA
Diana Duarte
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Walnut Creek, CA 94596  (Online Only)
Whether you are struggling with stress, anxiety, depression, a life transition, family issues, self esteem, etc.
Welcome! I'm Diana. Bienvenido! Me llamo Diana. Do you feel overwhelmed with life's stressors? Are you feeling stuck and not sure how to move forward? Are you having a difficult time finding balance in your life? My practice is inclusive of all individuals with an emphasis on supporting women with professional careers and in academics. Together we can assess what you would like to improve in your life and create a plan to achieve your goals. We will use a variety of approaches that are specifically tailored to your needs to cultivate a balanced and fulfilling life.
Whether you are struggling with stress, anxiety, depression, a life transition, family issues, self esteem, etc.
Welcome! I'm Diana. Bienvenido! Me llamo Diana. Do you feel overwhelmed with life's stressors? Are you feeling stuck and not sure how to move forward? Are you having a difficult time finding balance in your life? My practice is inclusive of all individuals with an emphasis on supporting women with professional careers and in academics. Together we can assess what you would like to improve in your life and create a plan to achieve your goals. We will use a variety of approaches that are specifically tailored to your needs to cultivate a balanced and fulfilling life.
(925) 481-5716 View (925) 481-5716
Photo of Jim Wolfe, Marriage & Family Therapist in Contra Costa County, CA
Jim Wolfe
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Walnut Creek, CA 94597
Beyond knowing a therapist has degrees and a license, a list of credentials do not matter much in your choosing. Therapy is more art than science. Nor may you be impressed with a long series of my professional accomplishments. What you want to know is: Can I stop the pain? Can I make your depression and anxiety go away? Can I fix your career or relationship problem? The answer is: No, I cannot. But together we can. If you will bring the motivation and some willingness to trust I will bring knowledge and the ability to shift things. And perhaps, with the help of an unseen grace, together we can heal the hurt and find a solution.
Beyond knowing a therapist has degrees and a license, a list of credentials do not matter much in your choosing. Therapy is more art than science. Nor may you be impressed with a long series of my professional accomplishments. What you want to know is: Can I stop the pain? Can I make your depression and anxiety go away? Can I fix your career or relationship problem? The answer is: No, I cannot. But together we can. If you will bring the motivation and some willingness to trust I will bring knowledge and the ability to shift things. And perhaps, with the help of an unseen grace, together we can heal the hurt and find a solution.
(925) 247-8859 View (925) 247-8859
Photo of Marley M Middlebrook, Psychologist in Contra Costa County, CA
Marley M Middlebrook
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Walnut Creek, CA 94596
Trained at UC Davis Medical Center to treat young children who have experienced trauma or behavioral difficulties. Additional training from the Renfrew Center in the treatment of eating disorders provides a unique combination for helping young children and their families with eating issues or obesity. A dissertation on binge eating provides an understanding for those who have emotional eating problems. Experience with addiction and dual diagnosis was earned while working with Contra Costa County treatment programs. Other experience includes treating children and adults who have suffered from maltreatment, domestic violence, depression, grief, and or eating disorders.
Trained at UC Davis Medical Center to treat young children who have experienced trauma or behavioral difficulties. Additional training from the Renfrew Center in the treatment of eating disorders provides a unique combination for helping young children and their families with eating issues or obesity. A dissertation on binge eating provides an understanding for those who have emotional eating problems. Experience with addiction and dual diagnosis was earned while working with Contra Costa County treatment programs. Other experience includes treating children and adults who have suffered from maltreatment, domestic violence, depression, grief, and or eating disorders.
(925) 352-1038 View (925) 352-1038
Photo of Neli R Geonetta, Psychologist in Contra Costa County, CA
Neli R Geonetta
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Walnut Creek, CA 94596
I specialize in helping individuals (adults 18 and up) work through a wide range of issues. Some typical issues include depression, anxiety, OCD, infidelity, intimacy, relationship problems, addictions, transitions ( Marriage/divorce, career, empty-nest), trauma, ADD/ADHD, issue from childhood and other life issues. I have been treating these and other types of life problems for over 25 years. From my experience, I have found that people benefit from different therapeutic modalities and methods to achieve their goals and potential. Some of the modalities I find useful in addition to traditional in-depth psychotherapy include CBT/ERP, DBT, and EMDR.
I specialize in helping individuals (adults 18 and up) work through a wide range of issues. Some typical issues include depression, anxiety, OCD, infidelity, intimacy, relationship problems, addictions, transitions ( Marriage/divorce, career, empty-nest), trauma, ADD/ADHD, issue from childhood and other life issues. I have been treating these and other types of life problems for over 25 years. From my experience, I have found that people benefit from different therapeutic modalities and methods to achieve their goals and potential. Some of the modalities I find useful in addition to traditional in-depth psychotherapy include CBT/ERP, DBT, and EMDR.
(925) 238-3917 View (925) 238-3917
Photo of Ericka Price, Marriage & Family Therapist in Contra Costa County, CA
Ericka Price
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Pablo, CA 94806
I am here to support you in addressing these issues, whether it be anxiety, depression, anger management, stress, work-related issues, relationship conflict, family issues, or simply someone to assist you in navigating through life’s difficulties.
Hello, I'm Erika! I am a licensed therapist with 10 years of professional work experience. I want to help you fulfill your hopes to improve your life, relationships, and self. I partner with clients in a non-judgmental and authentic setting to facilitate the changes you desire for your life and relationships. I utilize a collaborative, strength-based approach that is client-centered, solution-focused, and culturally relevant during therapy. In session I promote a nonjudgmental atmosphere that is warm, accepting, inclusive, and practical with a high value on careful listening and empathy.
I am here to support you in addressing these issues, whether it be anxiety, depression, anger management, stress, work-related issues, relationship conflict, family issues, or simply someone to assist you in navigating through life’s difficulties.
Hello, I'm Erika! I am a licensed therapist with 10 years of professional work experience. I want to help you fulfill your hopes to improve your life, relationships, and self. I partner with clients in a non-judgmental and authentic setting to facilitate the changes you desire for your life and relationships. I utilize a collaborative, strength-based approach that is client-centered, solution-focused, and culturally relevant during therapy. In session I promote a nonjudgmental atmosphere that is warm, accepting, inclusive, and practical with a high value on careful listening and empathy.
(341) 758-5394 View (341) 758-5394
Photo of Megan Bradley, Marriage & Family Therapist in Contra Costa County, CA
Megan Bradley
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Brentwood, CA 94513
), with various presenting issues, such as, trauma, bereavement, self-emotional dysregulation, anxiety, depression, adjusting to an illness and/or disability, and marital discord.
During stressful times, constant worrying, anxiety, anger, and sadness surfaces and causes disruption with relationships, sleep, eating habits, and health. I strongly believe in the mind and body connection and, with help, stress can be an opportunity for emotional growth. I utilize my clinical experience and evidence-based therapeutic interventions to motivate clients and families towards their own emotional growth. I tailor various therapeutic approaches according to what works for my client and what my client needs to meet their goals.
), with various presenting issues, such as, trauma, bereavement, self-emotional dysregulation, anxiety, depression, adjusting to an illness and/or disability, and marital discord.
During stressful times, constant worrying, anxiety, anger, and sadness surfaces and causes disruption with relationships, sleep, eating habits, and health. I strongly believe in the mind and body connection and, with help, stress can be an opportunity for emotional growth. I utilize my clinical experience and evidence-based therapeutic interventions to motivate clients and families towards their own emotional growth. I tailor various therapeutic approaches according to what works for my client and what my client needs to meet their goals.
(925) 318-9684 View (925) 318-9684
Photo of Christina Iglesia, Psychologist in Contra Costa County, CA
Christina Iglesia
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Lafayette, CA 94549
I specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of mental health challenges such as depression, anxiety, trauma, self-harm, disordered eating and substance abuse.
Telehealth & In-Person options for CA & NY Residents. Your decision to pursue therapy is an important and personal one. Whether you are looking to address lingering issues or searching for support for ongoing concerns, you do not need to do it alone. Therapy is one of the few opportunities in which you are encouraged to explore and express your authentic self, allowing for deeper personal connections and engagement in life.
I specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of mental health challenges such as depression, anxiety, trauma, self-harm, disordered eating and substance abuse.
Telehealth & In-Person options for CA & NY Residents. Your decision to pursue therapy is an important and personal one. Whether you are looking to address lingering issues or searching for support for ongoing concerns, you do not need to do it alone. Therapy is one of the few opportunities in which you are encouraged to explore and express your authentic self, allowing for deeper personal connections and engagement in life.
(925) 448-9291 View (925) 448-9291
Photo of Institute of Mindful Therapy Group Practice in Contra Costa County, CA
Institute of Mindful Therapy Group Practice
LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Walnut Creek, CA 94596
Are you struggling with mental health issues, such as anxiety, depression, or trauma. Have you experienced past traumas, or going through a difficult life transition, or are you struggling with relationships? Whatever the issue may be, we want to recognize and acknowledge that we can help to address your challenges. Our group of talented therapists are skilled at providing you with emotional support, incorporating modalities such as Ketamine, mindfulness, and utilizing a client centered approach. We will also work on helping to develop tools and techniques tailored to your needs, which will help improve your overall well-being.
Are you struggling with mental health issues, such as anxiety, depression, or trauma. Have you experienced past traumas, or going through a difficult life transition, or are you struggling with relationships? Whatever the issue may be, we want to recognize and acknowledge that we can help to address your challenges. Our group of talented therapists are skilled at providing you with emotional support, incorporating modalities such as Ketamine, mindfulness, and utilizing a client centered approach. We will also work on helping to develop tools and techniques tailored to your needs, which will help improve your overall well-being.
(925) 393-0363 View (925) 393-0363
Photo of Audrey Ramos, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Contra Costa County, CA
Audrey Ramos
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Richmond, CA 94804
I am most comfortable working with clients who are experiencing a moderate impairment in their functioning due to depression, anxiety, anger management issues, OCD traits or tendencies, distorted thought process, life crisis, life transitions and trauma survivors.
My name is Audrey Ramos and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of California. My approach is Strength Based, but also challenging. I am skilled in Seeking Safety, CBT techniques, Solution Focused and Motivational Interviewing. I enjoy establishing rapport with my clients and building on working, trusting, supportive environment to help my clients heal and grow. I practice reflective listening and help client's process difficult emotions to help them build empathy for themselves to move toward a place of progress, growth and an increase in overall functioning.
I am most comfortable working with clients who are experiencing a moderate impairment in their functioning due to depression, anxiety, anger management issues, OCD traits or tendencies, distorted thought process, life crisis, life transitions and trauma survivors.
My name is Audrey Ramos and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of California. My approach is Strength Based, but also challenging. I am skilled in Seeking Safety, CBT techniques, Solution Focused and Motivational Interviewing. I enjoy establishing rapport with my clients and building on working, trusting, supportive environment to help my clients heal and grow. I practice reflective listening and help client's process difficult emotions to help them build empathy for themselves to move toward a place of progress, growth and an increase in overall functioning.
(510) 851-8730 View (510) 851-8730
Photo of Raquel Castellanos Miller, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Contra Costa County, CA
Raquel Castellanos Miller, MSW, LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Richmond, CA 94801  (Online Only)
Utilizing a trauma informed approach, I work to build a safe therapeutic relationship with you, in order to address the underlying question of "What happened to you?," rather than "What's wrong with you?" Understanding that depression, anxiety and other mental health challenges stem from complex and myriad issues, including systemic social issues related to racism and oppression, family of origin issues, and the impact of trauma and adverse life experiences. My goal is to assist you to utilize life's adversities to discover and cultivate your inner strength and resilience, in service of your lifelong journey of growth and healing.
Utilizing a trauma informed approach, I work to build a safe therapeutic relationship with you, in order to address the underlying question of "What happened to you?," rather than "What's wrong with you?" Understanding that depression, anxiety and other mental health challenges stem from complex and myriad issues, including systemic social issues related to racism and oppression, family of origin issues, and the impact of trauma and adverse life experiences. My goal is to assist you to utilize life's adversities to discover and cultivate your inner strength and resilience, in service of your lifelong journey of growth and healing.
(510) 257-9311 View (510) 257-9311
Photo of Galina Litvin, Marriage & Family Therapist in Contra Costa County, CA
Galina Litvin
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Walnut Creek, CA 94596
As a mental health therapist I work from a client centered focus. I support and guide you in managing your mental health concerns. You maybe experiencing symptoms such as depression, anxiety, trauma, stress, or relationship issues. If you have a desire to understand and address the root causes of your life challenges, and you are willing to engage in the therapeutic process to make positive changes in your life then I'd love to work with you. I use a non-judgmental, empathetic therapeutic approach. I work to provide a safe and supportive environment to explore your thoughts and feelings, which in turn helps you grow as human being.
As a mental health therapist I work from a client centered focus. I support and guide you in managing your mental health concerns. You maybe experiencing symptoms such as depression, anxiety, trauma, stress, or relationship issues. If you have a desire to understand and address the root causes of your life challenges, and you are willing to engage in the therapeutic process to make positive changes in your life then I'd love to work with you. I use a non-judgmental, empathetic therapeutic approach. I work to provide a safe and supportive environment to explore your thoughts and feelings, which in turn helps you grow as human being.
(925) 361-3853 View (925) 361-3853
Photo of Altaf Bhimji, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Contra Costa County, CA
Altaf Bhimji
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
El Cerrito, CA 94530
You may have a goal of living a meaningful life in all of its richness - and are seeking help with mental health concerns, such as depression, anxiety, trauma, and/or somatic concerns. Childhood or long ago emotional concerns may continue to impact present day relationships, and/or day to day life. Or, perhaps, more recent incident(s) of stress or significant strain? A collaborative person-centered approach can help with self-reflection and exploring your life experiences, while working towards your goals, and healing.
You may have a goal of living a meaningful life in all of its richness - and are seeking help with mental health concerns, such as depression, anxiety, trauma, and/or somatic concerns. Childhood or long ago emotional concerns may continue to impact present day relationships, and/or day to day life. Or, perhaps, more recent incident(s) of stress or significant strain? A collaborative person-centered approach can help with self-reflection and exploring your life experiences, while working towards your goals, and healing.
(510) 422-1805 View (510) 422-1805
Photo of Elizabeth Serrato, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Contra Costa County, CA
Elizabeth Serrato
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Antioch, CA 94509
My name is Elizabeth Serrato and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Los Angeles, California. I work with adolescent and adult clients statewide via telehealth. I have much experience with helping clients improve anxiety, depression, and overall stress symptoms that life and life transitions create. I have found that my style and approach is a good fit for teens and adults who are dealing with the challenges of life transitions and social pressures. These issues often take the form of anxiety, depression, stress, and substance use.
My name is Elizabeth Serrato and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Los Angeles, California. I work with adolescent and adult clients statewide via telehealth. I have much experience with helping clients improve anxiety, depression, and overall stress symptoms that life and life transitions create. I have found that my style and approach is a good fit for teens and adults who are dealing with the challenges of life transitions and social pressures. These issues often take the form of anxiety, depression, stress, and substance use.
(925) 940-1950 View (925) 940-1950
Photo of Christine Mckeehan, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Contra Costa County, CA
Christine Mckeehan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Ramon, CA 94582
I work with those who experience depression, anxiety, PTSD, obsessive-compulsive behaviors, struggles as a parent, those with anger issues, among other mental health issues.
Hello, my name is Christine Mckeehan, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a doctorate in clinical psychology (PsyD). l have been in practice since 2020; however, I have been licensed since 2013. I have worked with families in some sort of capacity for more than 30 years, as a foster parent, social worker, forensic psychologist post-doc, among other service-driven positions. I work with the philosophy of starting where the client is at and working from a solutions-focused perspective to establish goals that propel you forward. I have worked extensively with youth and their parents, some of whom are incarcerated.
I work with those who experience depression, anxiety, PTSD, obsessive-compulsive behaviors, struggles as a parent, those with anger issues, among other mental health issues.
Hello, my name is Christine Mckeehan, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a doctorate in clinical psychology (PsyD). l have been in practice since 2020; however, I have been licensed since 2013. I have worked with families in some sort of capacity for more than 30 years, as a foster parent, social worker, forensic psychologist post-doc, among other service-driven positions. I work with the philosophy of starting where the client is at and working from a solutions-focused perspective to establish goals that propel you forward. I have worked extensively with youth and their parents, some of whom are incarcerated.
(925) 436-1870 View (925) 436-1870
Photo of Christina Vasquez-Leiva, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Contra Costa County, CA
Christina Vasquez-Leiva
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Walnut Creek, CA 94596  (Online Only)
I have 10+ years providing therapy to youth, adults, families and couples who struggle with depression, anxiety, addiction, childhood trauma, loss/ grief, relationship violence, unhealthy communication and other negative life events.
Have you ever felt alone in a crowded room? Had an overwhelming feeling of wanting to cry, but not really sure why? Thoughts and worries that keep you up at night? You are not alone, many of us struggle with depression and anxiety in our everyday lives. These struggles might cause us to not perform our best at work, keep us from concentrating in school and cause us to say things that we don’t mean to the ones that we love. I can help you identify what you want to improve in your life and create a safe space for you to be able to overcome the barriers preventing you from succeeding.
I have 10+ years providing therapy to youth, adults, families and couples who struggle with depression, anxiety, addiction, childhood trauma, loss/ grief, relationship violence, unhealthy communication and other negative life events.
Have you ever felt alone in a crowded room? Had an overwhelming feeling of wanting to cry, but not really sure why? Thoughts and worries that keep you up at night? You are not alone, many of us struggle with depression and anxiety in our everyday lives. These struggles might cause us to not perform our best at work, keep us from concentrating in school and cause us to say things that we don’t mean to the ones that we love. I can help you identify what you want to improve in your life and create a safe space for you to be able to overcome the barriers preventing you from succeeding.
(925) 369-5340 View (925) 369-5340
Photo of Kendra Urton, Marriage & Family Therapist in Contra Costa County, CA
Kendra Urton
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Martinez, CA 94553
Has your life suffered because of trauma you have experienced? I work with individuals, couples, and families to overcome their challenges related to abuse and trauma as well as anxiety, depression, and interpersonal issues. I have worked with survivors of sexual trauma and domestic violence, the LGBT community and unique concerns within that community, and individuals who struggle with co-occurring mental illness and substance use. I'm also familiar with the struggles you may have in managing a chronic illness. I value the importance of creating a safe, non-judgmental space to work on yourself.
Has your life suffered because of trauma you have experienced? I work with individuals, couples, and families to overcome their challenges related to abuse and trauma as well as anxiety, depression, and interpersonal issues. I have worked with survivors of sexual trauma and domestic violence, the LGBT community and unique concerns within that community, and individuals who struggle with co-occurring mental illness and substance use. I'm also familiar with the struggles you may have in managing a chronic illness. I value the importance of creating a safe, non-judgmental space to work on yourself.
(925) 293-9135 View (925) 293-9135
Photo of Kaitlyn Brown, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Contra Costa County, CA
Kaitlyn Brown
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Walnut Creek, CA 94597  (Online Only)
Participating in therapy can be a uniquely beneficial process for improving overall health and wellness. Whether it's healing from past traumas, adjusting to changes in life, implementing new ways of thinking and feeling, or working to define our sense of self and value system, therapy can be an invaluable support along the way. My approach can be helpful in many ways, including processing past traumas, managing and improving depression, anger, and anxiety, addressing self-judgment and guilt, and identifying ruminative and false thoughts.
Participating in therapy can be a uniquely beneficial process for improving overall health and wellness. Whether it's healing from past traumas, adjusting to changes in life, implementing new ways of thinking and feeling, or working to define our sense of self and value system, therapy can be an invaluable support along the way. My approach can be helpful in many ways, including processing past traumas, managing and improving depression, anger, and anxiety, addressing self-judgment and guilt, and identifying ruminative and false thoughts.
(925) 694-1635 View (925) 694-1635
Photo of Meredith Reddoch, Marriage & Family Therapist in Contra Costa County, CA
Meredith Reddoch
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, SEP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Walnut Creek, CA 94598
My experience includes managing anxiety, treating depression, processing trauma and understanding relationships.
I provide a safe, calm, friendly, empathetic & down to earth environment for you in session. Making changes or gaining a better understanding about your life can be challenging. I will provide support to you whether you are experiencing a crisis, going through a transition in life or are interested in learning more about yourself & relationships. Together we can work on achieving your therapy goals.
My experience includes managing anxiety, treating depression, processing trauma and understanding relationships.
I provide a safe, calm, friendly, empathetic & down to earth environment for you in session. Making changes or gaining a better understanding about your life can be challenging. I will provide support to you whether you are experiencing a crisis, going through a transition in life or are interested in learning more about yourself & relationships. Together we can work on achieving your therapy goals.
(925) 255-5499 View (925) 255-5499
Photo of Shawn Sinclair, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Contra Costa County, CA
Shawn Sinclair
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Richmond, CA 94804
Dedicating much of my clinical work to helping adolescents, young adults, adults, and families, I have experience providing individual therapy for all ages and groups, including pre-marital work. I assist clients coping with stress, anxiety, depression, abuse, trauma, marital and relationship issues, loss, eating disorders, oppositional behavior, life-skills work, adoptions/foster care, parenting issues, sexual identification struggles, and any life changes. I am passionate about helping my clients turn difficult experiences into opportunities for growth. I understand that stressful situations can be overwhelming.
Dedicating much of my clinical work to helping adolescents, young adults, adults, and families, I have experience providing individual therapy for all ages and groups, including pre-marital work. I assist clients coping with stress, anxiety, depression, abuse, trauma, marital and relationship issues, loss, eating disorders, oppositional behavior, life-skills work, adoptions/foster care, parenting issues, sexual identification struggles, and any life changes. I am passionate about helping my clients turn difficult experiences into opportunities for growth. I understand that stressful situations can be overwhelming.
(510) 621-6641 View (510) 621-6641

See more therapy options for Contra Costa County

Depression Therapists

What is the goal of therapy for depression?

Therapy for depression has several major goals. One is to relieve the mental pain of depression, which distorts feeling and thinking so that sufferers cannot see beyond their current state of mind or envision feeling better. Another is to give people the mental tools to recognize and correct the kinds of distorted thinking that turn a problem into a catastrophe and lead to despair. Therapy also teaches people how to process negative emotions in constructive ways, so they have more control over their own emotional reactivity. And it helps people regain the ability to see themselves positively, the motivation to do things, and the capacity for pleasure.

What happens in therapy for depression?

Perhaps most important, no matter the type of therapy, patients form an alliance with the therapist; that connection is therapeutic in itself, plus it becomes an instrument of change. Patients learn to identify and to challenge their own erroneous beliefs and thoughts that amplify the effects of negative experiences. They learn to identify situations in which they are especially vulnerable. And they learn new patterns of thinking and behaving. They may be given “homework” assignments in which they practice their developing skills. In addition, good therapists regularly monitor patients to assess whether and how much the condition is improving.

What therapy types help with depression?

Several types of short-term therapy have been found effective, each targeting one or more areas of dysfunction. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) helps clients challenge their negative thoughts and beliefs, learn new behavioral strategies, and curb reactivity to distressing situations. Behavioral activation (BA) is a form of therapy often used in conjunction with CBT; it focuses on engagement in rewarding activity as a pathway to changing negative feelings and disturbed mood. Another widely used approach is interpersonal therapy (IPT), which targets the social difficulties that both give rise to and get exacerbated by depression. Therapists may combine approaches as needed.

Can therapy for depression be done online?

Studies have found that online therapy can be highly effective for treating depression, although it may be more challenging to build a good therapist-patient alliance on screen than in person—at least at first. However, online therapy can offer considerable advantages. Accessibility and convenience are tops among them. Some people actually find it easier to talk about problems online than in person. While online therapy typically limits visibility of facial expression and body gestures that give important nonverbal cues to a patient’s state of mind, it can give therapists a glimpse into a patient’s world and life, providing information that can be highly useful in guiding therapy.

How effective is therapy for depression?

Many studies show that therapy is highly effective provided that patients complete the prescribed course of therapy, commonly 16 to 20 sessions. Over the long term, it is more effective than medication and the effects are more enduring. As a result, psychotherapy has the power not just to relieve current suffering but to prevent future episodes of the disorder. Therapy reverses the dysfunction in neural circuitry that disposes individuals to a negative view of themselves, the world, and their future and they acquire coping techniques, problem-solving skills, and understanding of their own vulnerabilities that are useful over the course of a lifetime.